Jaylin Williams’ Defense Is Highly Underrated

The J-Will Effect

Many people would actually say that J-Will is a better player because he is playing with an elite squad. However, we’re seeing him help OKC in his games so far. He is providing a lot of value when it comes to spacing with his three-point shooting to begin with. It’s worth noting that he’s a 34.1% shooter from deep, which makes him a valuable rotation player to begin with.

We’re also seeing OKC use him the same way as Hartenstein. Williams is generating points with his passing and then screening. That accounts for both assists and screen assists. That says a lot about how there are bigger expectations from J-Will with his ability to distribute the ball.

And of course, there’s the grit and dedication of competing at a higher level. It cannot be denied that he’s playing at a high level as much as any other player on the Thunder roster. The fact that he stood up against Jokic during that scuffle, coming from the Lu Dort flagrant two foul, was definitely proof of his high competitiveness.

Williams’ Defense Is A Huge Win For OKC

As a team that takes pride in defense at a high level, Williams is an underrated standout in that regard. For starters, he’s capable of blocking shots as much as both Holmgren and Hartenstein. His size proved to be a win on the defense as he’s able to take on both big men, but still mobile enough to also defend on the perimeter. He’s also showing his worth as one of the best defenders against Jokic.

If there’s going to be a lot of buzz for OKC, one of them should be the newfound appreciation for Williams. He’s definitely rising up to prove his worth with the defending champs. This spells an impressive growth for the squad. And this coming in the second-half stretch of the season is definitely a win.